NCIDQ IDFX Practice Exam

What characterizes a double complementary color scheme?

1. One dominant color with two shades

2. Two colors that are perfectly contrasting

3. Four hues used, with a pair on either side of two complements

4. Three primary colors combined

The correct answer is: Four hues used, with a pair on either side of two complements

A double complementary color scheme is characterized by the use of four hues, which incorporates two complementary color pairs. This scheme utilizes one color and its complement, along with another color and its complement. For example, if red and its complementary color green form one pair, blue and its complementary color orange would form the second pair. This approach creates a balanced and vibrant look because it combines the energy of contrasting colors with the harmony of analogous shades in between. The other options focus on different principles of color relationships. For instance, having one dominant color with two shades pertains to a monochromatic scheme, where variations in saturation and brightness of a single color create depth without utilizing complementary contrasts. Similarly, two colors that are perfectly contrasting define a simple complementary color scheme but do not encompass multiple hues. Lastly, combining three primary colors relates to a triadic color scheme, which is structured quite differently from the double complementary arrangement.